An international team has made groundbreaking progress toward growing maize more sustainably. They are undertaken largely under the auspices of the Institute of Atmospheric Physics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The study, published in Advances in Atmospheric Sciences, aims to develop methods for growing maize that are both productive and environmentally friendly. This study tackles the formidable, pressing task of meeting a planet’s burgeoning human population’s needs while reducing farming’s burden on the Earth.
Using a sophisticated computer model known as CNMM-DNDC, researchers assessed the carbon footprint associated with maize farming across three distinct climate zones. These ranged from temperate climates in China, subtropical climates, also in China, and tropical climates in Kenya. The researchers compiled a set of field measurements from multi-cropping maize cultivation systems located in Madeya, Kenya. This new data delivers real-world evidence to help prove their conclusion.
Key Findings on Carbon Footprint
Even going back and forth between humid and arid climates still yielded significant reductions in carbon emissions associated with maize cultivation. It found that subtropical climates, especially Yanting, China, had the smallest carbon footprint for maize production. In contrast, temperate regions like Yongji, China, exhibited a small carbon footprint.
Perhaps the most surprising finding from the study is the depth at which a large amount of soil carbon is being stored, particularly in temperate areas. This action directly cuts the more polluting emissions from fertilizer supply chains. Thus, it offers an even-handed view of environmental harms. Dr. Siqi Li, the lead author of the study, emphasized the challenge faced by researchers:
“The challenge has been to find solutions that both feed the world and protect it.” – Dr. Siqi Li
Keeping this balance is important, too. Maize is a major staple in sub-Saharan Africa, and its sustainable production is critical to address both poverty and food insecurity.
Methodology and Innovation
The CNMM-DNDC model became a key component in the study’s methodology. To achieve this, researchers incorporated a unique ‘cradle-to-gate’ tracking process. Doing so provided the most precise emissions estimates possible for farming and supply chain emissions for every bushel of corn grown. This novel, collaborative method provides stakeholders with a new and powerful tool to come together and prioritize strategies that will best help their community reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
This improved methodology enhances our understanding of emissions. As a result, it lays the groundwork for concrete lessons that farmers worldwide can use to implement their own solutions.
“By integrating a ‘cradle-to-gate’ tracking method into our model, we can now precisely quantify the greenhouse gas emissions from farm and supply chain activities per bushel of corn. This gives us a powerful tool to identify the most effective mitigation strategies.” – Dr. Siqi Li
This new international study provides powerful insights. They provide an important roadmap for farmers and policymakers who are looking to adopt climate-smart agricultural practices. As populations increase, so too does pressure on food systems. To counter this with climate change, we need to adopt more regenerative, environment-friendly agricultural practices.
Implications for Farmers and Policymakers
Co-author Peter Bolo from the International Center for Tropical Agriculture in Nairobi underscored the significance of their research:
This study brings national attention to the adverse impacts of corn farming on the environment. It offers actionable steps to secure healthy food for all without compromising our environment.
“Our study, examining the shifts in greenhouse gas emissions under integrated soil fertility management in long-term maize trials, provides robust evidence for climate-smart intensification in Africa.” – Peter Bolo
This research not only highlights the environmental dimensions of maize farming but also offers practical solutions that can help ensure food security while preserving ecological integrity.